Cost of Living in Dallas, TX (2026) (2026)

Dallas offers a strong job market in tech, finance, and healthcare with no state income tax. The DFW metroplex provides affordable suburbs and urban living options with a thriving food and entertainment scene.

Avg 1BR Rent

$1,789

Avg 2BR Rent

$1,974

State Tax

None

Median Income

$70,518

Affordability Rating

Tight

AffordableTightExpensive

$1,750/mo rent on $70K in Dallas

Rent Affordability by Salary in Dallas

Salary	Take-Home	Max Rent (30%)	After Expenses
$50k	$3,524	$1,250	$915	Details
$60k	$4,194	$1,500	$1,335	Details
$70k	$4,804	$1,750	$1,695	Details
$80k	$5,390	$2,000	$2,031	Details
$90k	$5,976	$2,250	$2,367	Details
$100k	$6,563	$2,500	$2,704	Details

Monthly Cost Breakdown in Dallas

Average 1BR Rent$1,789

Utilities$251

Groceries$313

Transportation$482

Healthcare$313

Total Monthly Essentials$3,148

Living in Dallas: What to Expect

Dallas blends Southern hospitality with big-city energy. Expect wide highways, sprawling suburbs, and a surprisingly diverse food scene from Tex-Mex to Korean BBQ.

Best Neighborhoods for Renters

Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts offer walkable urban vibes, while Plano and Frisco deliver family-friendly suburbs with top-rated schools.

Getting Around

Most residents drive—DART light rail covers some areas, but a car is practically essential in the DFW metroplex.